Headstall

I'm missing my horse badly today...

Damn! it's getting difficult to tell AI images from real ones. Frustrating! World, what the hell are we doing? We can't trust anything.

Hello, you varmints....

I'd have done the same thing. Hey, Page.

I hold no distain... well... not for you.

I sold him 2 of my Bouvier Des Flanders that I bred. We had a go between and I met him on a road... he was careful of people knowing where he lived. Sweet man.

I was showing you love and support. I'm not Drew.

Hello, all... and Spikey. Lawyer today to sign some papers.

I did.

Yes, spikey, you're all that and a bag of chips.

So cute.

We're good. Had to go get her pills from the vet. Every summer she gets to scratching, and the pills fix it right away.

Greetings, all.

Love that you feel that way, buddy. It's true they've given hope and a lifeline to a desperate Willy James and Runyan, and now a terrified Regis and Darnell, and maybe that has to do with having to fight so hard for their own love... maybe they are destined to rope the moon for others too. Thanks for this, Cane. I hope you are enjoying the journey.

No worries, buddy. If you ever wonder about something in my stories, just keep bringing it to my attention. Input of any kind is appreciated.

Never a dull moment? Hey, Parker. Traveling was dangerous back then, and there were lots of easy targets for the criminal varmints. As far as a theft can be innocent, this one really was. Regis and Darnell probably wouldn't have lasted much longer, on exhausted horses and exhausted themselves. Now, they have a chance. Hope you are enjoying this, buddy. I was eager to introduce Runyan, and it seems he's made an impact. Cheers. Gary

It's pretty clear Regis and Darnell are out of their element, but they were desperate. I feel so sorry for them, having to run for their very lives because they love one another. They have a lot to learn, but they have found a good champion in Runyan. Who's to say where they will end up, but what matters is whether they will be safe. Thanks, my friend. I appreciate the support for this story very much. Cheers! Gary.

Hi, Sherye! Runyan picked the perfect time to make his appearance, didn't he? There really is strength in numbers... and yeah, we all have to hope for Willy James to arrive safely. Thank you, my friend. Hope all is well with you.

Thanks, buddy. Glad you liked it!

Exactly. I should have read farther. I think his parents raised a stellar individual.

I get that, and you said it just fine. I hope we all see Runyan as heroic in this first time we actually meet him.

I could use a little 'Folgers' in my cup. I glad you don't fault those boys for what they did. Of course it isn't right, but desperation mixed with love is a potent motivator. The situation could have been tragic, but t wasn't and August related more than he would have liked. If not for the grace of God and all that... this could have been him and Fletcher on the run. I agree. It must be somewhat comforting to see others like you, and know they understand. Hiding can be exhausting. Yeah, Runyan. It's a big deal to give away such a valuable possession as a compass. I think we can all see why Willy James loves this man. He is impressive, confidant and in control. That's hot. I do wonder if in seeing these inexperienced town boys, he doesn't see Willy James in them. He may feel like in some ways he is helping the man he loves. Too much? Maybe. I would assume the appearance of Runyan on the trail would mean Willy James must also have ridden out. Here's hoping. Thank you, my sweet friend.

Hi, Neal! Your comment about Lance confused me at first, but I think I've figured it out. Regis's horse is named Lace... which you might have misread as Lance. “You think I want to give up Lace? You know the alternative, right? It’ll be you what’s getting shot.” There is no comma in front of Lace, which there would be if Regis called his friend by that name. He's saying to Darnell he doesn't want to give up his horse (Lace) either, after Darnell says he doesn't want to give his mare up. Hope that clears it up, my friend. Glad to hear you loved the chapter and the writing of the confrontation scene, and especially the appearance of Runyan. I appreciate that.

Just a minor blip in the road, Doc. Calm and quiet is overrated. It's good to know Darnell and Regis have an option at the grandfather's, and as you say, there might be another one at Barnswallow if need be. At the least, it would be a safe haven for those boys. The uncle sounds like a monster, very much like Albert Cooley. Guys like that don't just expire and take themselves out of the picture. The whereabouts of Willy James is the big question. It's pretty clear Runyan was up ahead searching for him, and I'd be willing to bet he's watched the river side a few times, hoping to spot him. I can't imagine the turmoil he feels. Runyan would know a lot of rough men, but Willy James isn't one of them. Trailside hanger... that's a new one on me... I like it. Monday? I'll check my calendar, but I don't think so. Thanks, my friend.

Thank you so much, Albert.